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Glass bowl for New South Wales Centennial Regatta trophy
Glass bowl for New South Wales Centennial Regatta trophy

Glass bowl for New South Wales Centennial Regatta trophy

Datec 1888
Object number00031723
NameTrophy bowl
MediumGlass
DimensionsOverall: 130 x 305 x 305 mm, 2.3 kg
ClassificationsCommemorative artefacts
Credit LineANMM Collection
DescriptionThis cut glass bowl belongs to the top of a New South Wales Centennial Regatta Rowing Trophy. The New South Wales Centennial Regatta was held on Sydney Harbour on 27 January 1888 to celebrate the centenary of the founding of the colony of New South Wales. A senior fours rowing race was held as part of the regatta. Sydney Rowing Club won the race. The trophy is a rededicated greyhound racing trophy engraved with the winning crew's names.HistoryRegattas were central to competitive boating in the 19th century where they functioned as a social and sporting event, as well as a marker of official anniversaries in a public aquatic spectacle. Civic leaders, politicians and merchants offered patronage and sponsorship. Sydney Harbour regattas often featured several races, including rowing, sculling and sailing events usually for professional watermen and amateurs.SignificanceRegattas were part of colonial life, confirming community identity on a local, regional and national level. This regatta trophy is representative of an important ceremonial event and its history demonstrates the changing face of Australian sailing culture.